Are Dental Fillings for Kids Necessary?

Contrary to the misconception, dental fillings for kids are crucial and beneficial to oral health and growth, addressing various issues with a durable and effective solution. The development of baby teeth is crucial for a child's oral health, and dental fillings can help to ensure your child's teeth are on track for a bright, healthy future. Learn more about these restoratives and why staying on top of your child's oral health is important.

What are dental fillings for kids?

Dental fillings consist of materials, such as composite resin (tooth-colored), porcelain (white-colored), or amalgam (silver), to fill small holes left behind by cavities. Dental fillings for kids are one of pediatric dentistry's most common corrective procedures. They are safe and can prevent the previously affected from experiencing more decay. These restoratives can restore the look, function, and durability of baby (primary) and adult (secondary) teeth, making it a great option for kids with a mix.

Why baby teeth need dental fillings

Once decay or cavities enter a tooth, they begin aggressively attacking the layers of the tooth's structure until they reach the most vital parts: the chamber and root. This can lead to pain, sensitivity, inflammation, and fractures. Subsequently, depending on the location and number of teeth infected, kids may have difficulty eating a balanced diet, drinking, and speaking. They may even receive a blow to their confidence if the tooth is in the front of their mouth. Dental fillings for kids are a simple, quick fix if caught early enough.

Moreover, baby teeth are considered precursors for adult teeth. With the mouth and jaw structure developing until the age of 16 years for girls and between 18 to 21 years for boys, the baby teeth need to remain in the mouth until the body makes room to replace them. When a tooth becomes damaged to the point of needing extraction, it can cause surrounding teeth to shift, resulting in impaction, or the adult tooth becoming trapped under the gum line or growing off course into another tooth's socket. This will ultimately lead to more extensive and costly procedures and treatment plans as they mature.

Preventing the need for dental fillings

While dental fillings for kids can prevent more extensive procedures and oral difficulties, we try to prevent the need for any corrective procedure. However, some of the responsibility falls on the parent and patient. We strongly recommend the following:

Maintaining a balanced diet

We understand that kids naturally gravitate towards sweet, sugary food and drinks. While it is not necessary to completely cut these foods from their diet, parents should strictly limit them. Once sugar (added and natural) is allowed to sit on the teeth, it causes bacteria to build, eventually turning into cavities. Furthermore, a diet filled with healthy fats and vegetables helps to strengthen the teeth from within, making it more difficult for decay to develop.

Maintaining biannual appointments

Dentists recommend that kids undergo a dental checkup and professional cleaning every six months as a preventative measure. They will ensure they are developing properly while checking the teeth and gums for abnormalities and adhering to proper oral hygiene practices. They may also recommend preventative procedures to help strengthen or protect the teeth, such as fluoride treatments or dental sealants.

Practicing proper oral hygiene

Parents may need to help their kids follow proper oral care techniques depending on their age. Dentists recommend brushing thoroughly twice a day (more if they consume sugary foods or drinks), flossing once daily, and using an antibacterial mouth rinse. Parents should inquire with the dentist about the products that better suit their child during each appointment, as they may change as the child grows.